Widow left with nothing in a will that pre-dated her marriage

[malgoode]

My friend recently died following an operation in hospital. He only married his wife (now widow) 3 years and 8 months ago (2008).
My friend left a will dated 1999, which was before he met his wife, but apparently did not alter it (unless a later will has magically disappeared).

The will leaves 100% to his only sister and the executor named is his sisters husband (ie brother-in-law). Thus his widow is left with nothing.

My friend's widow had now been told (by the brother-in-law executor) to make arrangements to leave the house after the funeral because she has no right to stay there.

Clearly, she needs to contest the will and, if possible, the stated executor to obtain at least something from the estate.

How should she go about this?

I would add that the widow has also, for the past 2 years, been not just a wife but a carer for her late husband when he became disabled.

Thanks in advance,

Mal.

[CYNthesys]

Re: Widow left with nothing in a will that pre-dated her marriage

I may be wrong, but I always thought that marriage subsequent to a will, invalidated the will

[CYNthesys]

Re: Widow left with nothing in a will that pre-dated her marriage

Ive come across this

Every adult should make a Will and review it regularly, particularly if their circumstances change, such as they get married, have children or get divorced.
(In fact it is important to note that marriage invalidates any Will made before marriage).

http://www.watsonwoodhouse.co.uk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=9&Ite mid=12

[Streetwise]

Re: Widow left with nothing in a will that pre-dated her marriage

Have to say the brother in law sounds like a lovely character ( NOT ),but armed with the above information you can tell him to get lost,regards Streetwise.